Answers to the most important questions
The launch of the SHPA app has raised a number of questions. The most frequently asked questions are answered below.
Why is the SHPA developing its own app?
The SHPA does not question the importance of existing services such as MeteoSchweiz or private platforms. Nevertheless, the association sees a clear responsibility to provide important information independently and reliably via its own network.
The focus is on:
- club-specific information for flying areas
- short-notice safety-related updates
- weather forecasts and live data specifically tailored to flying sports
Having its own platform makes it easier to ensure the necessary continuity and certainty of action. Furthermore, it is important to offer members modern solutions as part of their membership. The views of the SHPA clubs were of paramount importance: they identified the SHV’s digital presentation of their flying areas as a top priority.
Did the SHPA survey its members’ needs?
Yes. In autumn 2024, all members were surveyed in detail about their weather-related needs. The results of these surveys formed the basis for the app’s development. Members’ needs are continuously assessed and incorporated into the app’s ongoing development.
Was developing an app even necessary?
Yes. The solution was not created simply because ‘that’s what people do these days’, but following an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of possible solutions.
The previous SHPA weather website was used extensively – particularly on mobile devices. At the same time, as part of the Open Government Data initiative, MeteoSchweiz terminated the existing contract with effect from the start of 2026 and no longer provides data in the previously processed format.
It was therefore no longer possible to continue using the previous solution directly. A new solution had to be created.
Is this a completely new service?
No. The app is a further development of the association’s existing services.
The data has been available for years, for example via information boards and the previous Meteo website. What is new, above all, is the consolidation, updating and mobile availability of this content in a modern format.
Where does the weather data come from – and what are the key features of the SHPA app?
Among other sources, the app uses Open Government Data from MeteoSchweiz and the German Weather Service. However, this data is provided in raw form.
The added value comes from its processing:
- flight-specific interpretation
- weighting of relevant parameters
- clear visualisation
- targeted decision support
The service is supplemented by specific forecasts (for paragliders and hang gliders), purchased content and live data from various monitoring networks – including those run by clubs.
Why was a partnership with existing providers not chosen?
Partnerships were explored and discussions took place. The Executive Board weighed up the pros and cons of the options and decided on an in-house solution.
External providers tend to entail greater dependencies. Their interests may diverge from those of the diverse SHPA community. The SHPA wishes to be able to manage content and further development independently, particularly where safety-related issues are concerned.
This greater independence was a key factor in reaching this decision.
What sets the SHPA app apart from other offerings?
The SHPA app deliberately focuses on the basic needs of flying. It combines:
• a dense network of live weather data
• verified flight area information
• local rules and advice
• specialised forecasts (e.g. wind, Föhn, ensembles, Emagrams)
The range of functions has been deliberately limited. Route planning and specialised thermal forecasts have been intentionally omitted so as not to create competition with existing tools.
Why is certain content only accessible to members?
Some of the forecasts are reserved for members.
The app is funded by membership fees, and data processing incurs costs. At the same time, key information such as live data and flying area details remains publicly accessible, as it is crucial for safety and the preservation of the flying areas.
How much does it cost?
Due to contractual obligations, we are unable to provide a detailed breakdown.
A full-cost analysis for the development and operation of the mobile app over the first five years shows total costs of just over 4 CHF per member per year (the development costs are fully amortised over these five years). This represents very good value for money.
Developing, collecting and providing fully digitised flight area data, using the same calculation method, works out at just under 2 CHF per member per year.
Why was a native app chosen rather than a PWA or a website?
This decision was discussed in detail by the Executive Board and was reached after weighing up the pros and cons of the various options.
The approach is linked to cost, quality and usage. Through the collaboration with Ubique, the association can obtain processed weather data as a service, which eliminates a large part of the development effort and makes the solution financially viable for the association in the first place. Comparable models were not possible with other providers. Ubique offers these services only for native apps.
Furthermore, analyses of the SHPA weather page clearly showed that the vast majority of visits come from mobile devices. Accordingly, the focus was on creating a solution that works simply, clearly and efficiently on smartphones.
Nevertheless, a web application does have its relevance and benefits. Discussions on this have been ongoing since the start of the project. The focus is currently clearly on the mobile app. However, the association hopes to be able to provide a solution for web access as soon as possible.
What role did costs and the choice of partner play?
The costs and benefits of the various options were analysed. Project management, costs and the contractual model for development were decisive factors in selecting Ubique. Thanks to Fluid Meteo’s existing service, processed weather data can be utilised as a service, which saves on development effort, could be implemented promptly and makes the solution financially viable. Furthermore, this ensures maintenance and further development whilst keeping costs predictable.
No alternative models of this kind were apparent, particularly given that the mobile app was developed in just three months. This was the only way to ensure seamless operation following the shutdown of the SHV Meteo website.
Are there any disadvantages to the app solution?
Yes. An app alone does not cover all usage scenarios. In particular, its use on desktops or older devices is limited.
A complementary web solution is therefore being considered. Discussions on this are currently underway.
How is criticism handled?
The SHPA takes criticism seriously and incorporates it into its deliberations. Technical issues during the roll-out phase are continuously analysed and resolved. For instance, there have already been two updates to the app to correct identified errors and address members’ needs.
One such issue, for example, was a temporary interruption to the gliding forecast due to a delayed update. Such issues are viewed as part of a continuous improvement process. This is precisely why the app was actively positioned as a preview app, as the team was aware that they first needed to gather experience.
Is the app intended to compete with existing services?
No. The app is clearly intended as a complement.
The focus is on basic information and safety – not on competing with specialised tools. For this reason, features such as cross-country flight planning or specific thermal forecasts were deliberately omitted.
What additional features will the final app offer?
In addition to weather and live data, the app will in future also offer:
- digital licences (pilot’s licence, insurance)
- flight area information
- combined forecast and real-time data, which has been improved based on user feedback
The aim is to create a central platform for members and their flying-related needs.
When will a complementary website be launched?
A web solution is part of the strategic considerations and is currently being assessed. Specific details regarding the timing and scope are not yet available.
The SHPA aims to cover both usage scenarios – mobile and desktop – effectively in the medium term. The cost-benefit ratio is a key factor in this regard.
Conclusion
From the SHPA’s perspective, the app is not an end in itself, but a necessary and forward-looking development.
It brings together existing and new services in one place and creates an independent, reliable basis for safety-related decisions in aviation.
